Chattanooga, Tennessee, September 22, 2025
News Summary
The Chattanooga Police Department is grieving the loss of K9 Diesel, a dedicated German Shepherd who was euthanized after sustaining severe injuries during a SWAT operation. Diesel, who served with loyalty and courage, made significant contributions in his 17 months of service, including earning recognition in narcotics detection. His passing has deeply affected both the police department and the community, which honored him with a heartfelt tribute.
Chattanooga, Tennessee
The Chattanooga Police Department (CPD) is mourning the loss of K9 Diesel, a three-year-old German Shepherd who was euthanized following injuries sustained during a line of duty SWAT operation on September 15. Diesel’s deteriorating condition, which arose from severe injuries incurred during an incident involving an armed suspect, ultimately led to the decision to humanely euthanize him two days later, on September 17.
Diesel had undergone emergency surgery after the incident, but veterinarians determined that he would not recover to an acceptable quality of life. He suffered critical injuries from running through large shards of glass, including a severed artery and an Achilles tendon injury. The team at CPD, including Diesel’s handler Officer Paul Winkelman, reported that Diesel served with “loyalty and courage” and the loss is profoundly felt throughout the entire department.
Diesel was born on August 28, 2022 and joined the CPD in April 2024 from Southern Coast K9 in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. A dual-purpose patrol and narcotics detection K9, Diesel was one of five K9s named in remembrance of the Fallen Five from July 16, 2015. Notably, the name “Diesel” was suggested by the family of U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Carson Holmquist.
During his 17 months of service, Diesel made significant contributions to the community, including earning 2nd place in Narcotics Detection at the 2025 USPCA Region 22 K9 Trials, which qualified him for national competitions. His deployment on the night of his injuries involved a domestic call where a suspect, armed with a rifle, refused to surrender peacefully, leading to the subsequent SWAT operation.
As Diesel was taken to the Animal Hospital of Signal Mountain for euthanasia, a proper law enforcement escort was arranged. First responders lined up to pay their respects, highlighting the bond shared between Diesel and those who served alongside him. In addition, community members created a “rainbow bridge” in Diesel’s honor, showcasing the impact he had beyond his service as a K9.
The Chattanooga Police Department continues to honor Diesel’s memory, recognizing both his sacrifices and the essential role he played within the K9 unit and the wider community efforts in law enforcement.
FAQ
What injuries did K9 Diesel sustain during the SWAT operation?
K9 Diesel suffered critical injuries from running through large shards of glass, including a severed artery and an Achilles tendon injury.
When was K9 Diesel euthanized?
K9 Diesel was euthanized on September 17, two days after sustaining injuries during a SWAT operation on September 15.
What notable achievements did K9 Diesel accomplish during his service?
During his 17 months of service, Diesel earned 2nd place in Narcotics Detection at the 2025 USPCA Region 22 K9 Trials, qualifying for national competitions.
How were the community and law enforcement agencies involved in Diesel’s passing?
As Diesel was taken to the Animal Hospital of Signal Mountain for euthanasia, a proper law enforcement escort was arranged, and first responders lined up to pay their respects. Additionally, community members created a “rainbow bridge” in Diesel’s honor.
Key Features of K9 Diesel’s Service and Legacy
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Diesel |
| Breed | German Shepherd |
| Date of Birth | August 28, 2022 |
| Date Joined CPD | April 2024 |
| Service | Dual-purpose patrol and narcotics detection |
| Injuries Sustained | Severed artery, Achilles tendon injury |
| Euthanized Date | September 17 |
| Recognition | 2nd place in narcotics detection at the 2025 USPCA Region 22 K9 Trials |
| Community Impact | Rainbow bridge created in his honor |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
K9 Diesel to Be Euthanized After Line of Duty Injuries
Additional Resources
- WBIR News: Goodbye K9 Diesel
- NewsChannel 9: End of Watch for K9 Diesel
- Local 3 News: K9 Diesel Remembered
- Wikipedia: K9 Unit
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police Dog
- Times Free Press: K9 Diesel Euthanized
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
